Automobile

Car Covers: What You Need to Know

Protecting your vehicle with a cover is a terrific idea. In this article, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various car coverings and explain the main varieties and materials used for them.

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DO YOU WANT TO HIDE?

Having a car cover is beneficial if you keep your vehicle outside. Your car’s paint and upholstery will last longer with a lid because the sun’s rays won’t degrade them. The acidity of bird droppings can quickly eat through paint, but this will prevent that. Color can get stained or ruined by tree sap, leaves, and other contaminants. Fixing it may take a long time and cost a lot of money, depending on how extensive the damage is.

A cover can prevent dust and scratches from passing feet if you keep your automobile inside during storage. In general, the abrasion resistance of a fabric increases with its thickness and weight. Cotton fabrics are the most gentle on freshly painted walls, but certain synthetic materials can match their suppleness.

Many fabrics, but only a few automobiles.

Even a seasoned textile expert may feel overwhelmed by the selection of cover textiles. Here we’ll go through the three main types of substrates utilized in production, along with their respective advantages and disadvantages.

WOVEN

Woven materials outperform their bonded and non-woven counterparts in strength (tear resistance) and longevity. These textiles are produced on high-velocity looms using threads oriented in both the vertical and horizontal planes. Depending on the intended use and purpose of the cloth, the yarn size and density (count) may change. Woven fabrics are typically easy to fold and store away. They can be produced from either natural or synthetic materials and frequently have anti-mildew, anti-water, and anti-UV treatments.

NON-WOVEN

Compressed together with heat or glue, these fabrics are often made from polymer fibers (polyolefins). Materials of this type are typically thicker than wovens and warp knits, although they are not as tear-resistant or long-lasting. The increased wall thickness has the potential to reduce wear and tear significantly. The extra weight, though, may prove to be inconvenient. Water resistance, mildew resistance, and UV protection are some of the benefits these textiles naturally offer.

STRETCH KNITS

Flat knitting machines that resemble weaving looms are used to create warp-knit fabrics. Fabrics like these typically have polyester or nylon threads running the length of the material to create loops that lock together. Depending on the intended use and purpose of the cloth, the yarn size and density (count) may change. The majority of warp-knit materials may be easily folded and stowed away. Their resistance to moisture, mildew, and UV rays is exceptional, and they also have a high tear strength.

WARNINGS AND USEFUL HINTS

Before going out and buying a car cover, there are a few things you should think about. As an illustration, while most outdoor car coverings are effective at deflecting some rain, they cannot guarantee that your vehicle will remain fully dry. A non-airtight cover won’t allow the paint to breathe. Color can fade or even peel if it is suffocated by a body that doesn’t allow air to circulate. The cover lets air through, so it’s only a matter of time before water finds its way through to the paint. Even if it doesn’t, the color condenses when the temperature drops quickly. However, using a cover made from a material that allows condensation or rainwater to dissipate, your paint job will be safe.

While no outdoor cover can replace a garage, a high-quality, custom-fitted one may keep a car safe from the elements and extend the life of its paint, convertible top, and interior. Using a cover regularly also simplifies upkeep.

Some materials can hold far more water than others, so be prepared to deal with a very wet cover if you remove it soon after or during a rain shower. Put the body in a giant bin or plastic bag until the weather improves, and you can hang it up to dry. The surface must dry in the air as quickly as possible.

If water collects on the car’s paint during the winter and the temperature drops quickly, the cover could become stuck to the vehicle. Do not attempt to remove the body until the sun has had time to soften the material or the temperature has risen above freezing.

At home or in a public garage, a cover may keep prying eyes away and protect your vehicle from scratches and scrapes. The utmost comfort and durability for indoor use are found in fabrics made from 100% cotton. Some synthetic materials and polyester/cotton mixes can be equally effective indoor/outdoor protective layers.

Most car covers can be washed in a standard household washing machine. It’s best to use a commercial device to clean the bulkier of your coverings. Cold water and gentle soap should be used for every wash. Most covers are easily damaged by hot water and powerful detergents. In addition, a body must always be hung to dry in the open air. Most covers cannot withstand the intense heat of a commercial or residential dryer.

HOW TO GET A COVER

Before making a final decision, you should think about the following factors:

How much money do you have available to spend? If you’re on a tight budget but still want enough protection, a well-fitting universal cover is one option. (Excess material flapping against the paint in the wind from a too-loose exterior shell might cause damage.) On the other hand, some high-end bespoke covers are crafted from plush, long-lasting fabrics that offer a perfect fit in addition to maximum security.

Storing Items Indoors Or Outdoors — Most materials used for outdoor covers are treated to repel water and block UV rays, making them suitable for use in extreme weather. Fabrics designed for use indoors are often safe for limited outdoor use.

Choosing Your Fabric – The next step is to select a fabric after establishing a price range and considering where and how you’ll use the cover. Request fabric swatches when you call or visit a store or manufacturer. Seeing and touching the cloth is the best method to compare different options. In addition, this will remove any uncertainties regarding the expected quality and weight of the fabric.

Quality insurance is an investment that calls for research and planning, but it will pay off with years of worry-free protection for your car if you do it right. It’ll make exterior maintenance quicker and easier, increase the vehicle’s curb appeal, and lengthen the life of the paint and trim.

The author provided the following information: Michael Trueba Jr., President MPT Industries Auto Chic 973-989-9220 mtrueba@mptindustries.com

For more than two decades, Michael Trueba Jr. has led MPT Industries as its president. The company produces bespoke car wraps and niche lubricants. Michael has worked with textiles for over 25 years across multiple industries and holds degrees in textile technology, material and apparel marketing, and finance from the undergraduate and graduate levels, respectively.

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